Is Boston or San Jose more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while San Jose is $2,500/month. Boston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs San Jose, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and San Jose.
3
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Jose wins
MA
Boston
vs
CA
San Jose
Overview
672,814
Population
1,013,240
$81,744
Median Income
+43.7%$117,474✓
Cost of Living
$1,783✓
Median Rent / mo
+40.2%$2,500
$610,400✓
Median Home Price
+80.2%$1,100,000
26%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
5.00%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.38%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
257 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
15"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
San Jose, CA
San Jose is a city in California with a population of 1,013,240.
Read full San Jose guide →Boston vs San Jose — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or San Jose?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Boston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and San Jose?
San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or San Jose?
Boston. San Jose. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.